Programs Offered
Living and work options are designed to meet the needs of the consumer and to foster independence and skill development. The residential program options range from 24 hour 7 day a week supervised residences to semi-independent living apartments. Day programs are provided five days a week from 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Many consumers are employed by businesses throughout the county working 20 hours or more a week at above minimum wage salaries.

Day programs at the DeKalb Services Center, CHOICE and DeKalb Enterprises are provided to approximately 370 consumers. Residential services are provided in a variety of settings for approximately 80 consumers. Approximately fifty (45) consumers work at over 30 businesses across the county.

The Developmental Evaluation Clinic (DEC) serves individuals with co-occurring diagnoses, one of which must be mental retardation or a related developmental disability. A team including licensed clinical social worker and psychiatrist provide assessments, counseling and psychiatric services. DEC staff coordinate with mental health providers within and outside our agency to ensure consumers with developmental disabilities receive services appropriate to their needs.

Transportation services are available through the day and residential program. The DD Services transportation system transports approximately 250 consumer's daily to our three (3) Day Programs. Other transportation resources include MARTA, agency and private group homes and consumer families.

Family education is provided both formally and informally. Education is provided by a variety of professionals such as social work, psychology, nursing, pharmacy, etc. The information is frequently shared one-on-one with the family. For example, the nurse and pharmacist provide information regarding medication and medical conditions. The psychologist and behavior specialist provide education related to the behavioral needs of the consumer. Information and education is also provided during bi-monthly family meetings.

DeKalb MR Auxiliary
The Parent's Auxiliary began as a meeting of parents of consumers attending the DeKalb Services Center. It has been expanded to include families from all service components. The Auxiliary supports our programs in numerous ways, including service recommendations, financial assistance, and program advocacy. Parent's Auxiliary members are also active advocates for developmental disability services at a statewide level as well as county. Auxiliary meetings include information on a variety of topics. Parents are involved in the development and selection of family education topics. Flyers on meetings and education programs offered by other agencies and organizations are shared with families on a regular basis.